A club statement released late last night said: Leicester City Ambassador Alan Birchenall is recovering in hospital after suffering a heart attack on Thursday evening.

Alan, 71, was representing the Club at the 2016 Leicester Mercury Sports Awards at Welford Road when he collapsed needing urgent medical attention.

Thanks to the swift response of both those on site and arriving paramedics, Alan received treatment and regained consciousness at the scene before being transferred to Glenfield Hospital, where he is now in a stable condition following overnight examination.

On behalf of Alan, his family and everyone at Leicester City Football Club, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to all those whose instant assistance ensured Alan received the appropriate treatment in the quickest time possible.

Alan would also like to express his thanks for the numerous messages of love and support he has received.

‘Birch’ will continue to be monitored over the coming days as he continues his recovery and he does so with the thoughts and love of everyone at Leicester City Football Club.